On November 6, 2025, Austria was shaken by a tragic school shooting in Graz, where a 21-year-old gunman killed ten individuals, including students. The incident sparked widespread outrage and concern about the country’s gun laws, as the attacker possessed both a Glock pistol and a shotgun legally. Reports indicate that he had acquired one of the firearms just days prior to the assault, following a psychological evaluation as mandated by law. With roughly 1.5 million registered firearms in a nation of over 9 million, the shooting raised critical questions about the adequacy of Austria’s gun regulations and the processes involved in granting firearm licenses.
The more liberal gun laws in Austria, especially compared to countries like Germany and France, have become a focal point of discussion in the wake of the shooting. The Austrian Weapons Act categorizes firearms into four classes, easing restrictions on handgun ownership and allowing self-defense as a legitimate reason for possession. Particularly concerning is the fact that the number of registered weapons has increased significantly, by approximately 400,000, over the past five years. This trend prompts a reevaluation of gun ownership in a country still grappling with the implications of this mass shooting.
In response to the tragedy, Graz Mayor Elke Kahr advocated for stricter regulations, emphasizing the necessity for firearm bans in the private sector. She criticized the current licensing process for being too lenient and indicated that decisions to issue gun licenses are made too quickly. Such calls for reform signal a growing sentiment among the public and officials alike, who seek to prevent further acts of violence through stricter legislation.
The Austrian government also recognized the gravity of the situation, with President Alexander Van der Bellen expressing that the horror of such an event “could not be put into words.” Chancellor Christian Stocker declared a three-day period of national mourning to honor the victims and acknowledge the collective sorrow felt across the nation. This tragedy marks a significant moment in Austria’s history, being the deadliest mass shooting since World War II, and elevates the debate surrounding the country’s approach to gun control and public safety.
Current regulations require individuals to meet several conditions to legally own firearms, including age restrictions, residency requirements, and the absence of a weapons ban. Possession of certain categories, like pistols and semi-automatic rifles, mandates a firearms license. Additionally, firearms need to be stored safely and transported unloaded, underscoring the emphasis on safety. However, the recent shooting raises concerns about the effectiveness of these laws and the psychological evaluations necessary for gun ownership.
As Austria mourns and reflects on the repercussions of the Graz shooting, the discourse surrounding gun laws is likely to evolve. The attack has intensified scrutiny over firearm access, prompting citizens and lawmakers to call for reforms aimed at increasing safety and preventing similar tragedies. With the heightened awareness around mental health, gun safety, and responsible ownership practices, the nation stands at a crossroads, needing to balance individual rights with collective security in a society still reeling from profound loss.
